The Abu Dhabi government has been restructuring its real estate legal frameworks over the last 10 years to welcome international investors. In certain areas of Abu Dhabi, foreign nationals, non-residents, and expats are now allowed to buy property, with full ownership rights.

With the introduction of Law No. 13 of 2019, foreigners are now able to own the freehold within the designated zones, as UAE citizens. They are also free to buy in other areas under leaseholding, usufruct and musataha as long as they can use the property for over 25 to 99 years.

Can Foreigners Buy Off-Plan Property in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, foreigners can buy off-plan property in Abu Dhabi directly from developers such as Aldar, IMKAN, and Bloom. When it comes to long-term growth, off-plan investments are the best place to invest since they have low investment costs and high capital appreciation.

Is It Better to Buy or Rent in Abu Dhabi as a Foreigner?

Buying property in Abu Dhabi as a foreigner is usually more rewarding in case you want to stay in a few years or want to rent out the property. It is better to own than rent as the average rental yield in Abu Dhabi is 6-8. Nevertheless, in the case of short-term residence, renting can be more convenient to avoid the initial expenses, such as Abu Dhabi registration of property.

Can Companies Owned by Foreigners Buy Property in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, foreign-owned firms can purchase property in freehold and investment zones. Corporate customers must be registered with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED) and ensure compliance with property ownership regulations. It is common among investors who buy commercial offices or residential blocks for rental income.

To buy property in Abu Dhabi, foreigners need:

• A valid passport (and visa if resident)
• Emirates ID (for residents)
• Proof of income or bank statements
• Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA)
• No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the developer

These are required for issuing title deeds and for transferring property ownership to the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).

It has liberalized foreign ownership in investment zones which the government has approved and selectively on the basis of the lifestyle, infrastructure and prospects of growth.

Each of these zones allows foreigners to buy property in Abu Dhabi with full rights to sell, lease, inherit, or mortgage their units.

When you buy property in Abu Dhabi as a foreigner, you’ll encounter four main ownership categories



The Abu Dhabi Property Law (Law No. 13 of 2019) grants foreign individuals and companies the legal right to:

• Own freehold properties in designated investment zones
• Hold usufruct or musataha rights in non-freehold areas
• Inherit or transfer property similar to UAE nationals

The cost of buying property in Abu Dhabi for foreigners varies according to the type of property, location, and ownership.



Additional Abu Dhabi Property Registration Fees

• Property Registration Fee – 2% of property value
• Agency Commission – around 2%
• Transfer Fees – AED 5,000 – 10,000 (depending on developer)
• Service Charges – AED 10 – 25 per sq ft annually

Regardless of these costs, investing in Abu Dhabi as a foreigner in property is still profitable because of the absence of property tax, income taxes, and good performance on rent.

What Are the Financing Options for Non-Residents in Abu Dhabi?

Home loans and mortgages are also available to non-residents of the UAE through select UAE banks, including HSBC, ADCB and FAB, with up to 60 per cent coverage of the property value. 

Most developers are also providing post-handover payment schemes in the off-plan projects, and it is easier to invest without a full initial payment by foreigners.

 What Is the Minimum Investment to Buy Property in Abu Dhabi?

The minimum investment to buy property in Abu Dhabi typically starts around AED 800,000 to AED 1 million for apartments and AED 2 million for villas. For residency visa or Golden Visa – the real estate has to be worth at least AED 1 million (2-year visa) or AED 2 million (10-year Golden Visa).

These steps outline how foreigners can buy property in Abu Dhabi safely and legally.

1. Choose an Investment Zone: Select from freehold or leasehold areas open to foreigners.
2. Reserve the Property: Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and pay 5–10% as a deposit.
3. Legal Due Diligence: Verify ownership documents and developer registration with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
4. Sign Sales Agreement (SPA): Pay securely through an escrow account.
5. Title Deed Registration: Complete the Abu Dhabi property registration process at the municipality.
6. Receive Ownership Certificate: Obtain your official freehold title deed or usufruct certificate.

Property transfers occur via the DMT. Both the seller and the buyer should present valid identification, sale agreement and title deed. After payment of the fees and verification, the title deed is reissued under the name of the new owner.

Yes. Most major banks, including FAB, ADCB, and HSBC UAE, offer mortgages for foreigners.

• Expats (residents): up to 75–80% LTV
• Non-residents: up to 60% LTV
• Required Documents: passport, salary proof, bank statements, SPA

Securing a mortgage in Abu Dhabi for foreigners is simple as long as you collaborate with brokers who have been licensed and have a good credit history.

Absolutely. Buying property in Abu Dhabi for foreigners is among the safest and most profitable investment options in the Middle East.

Reasons to Invest

• Strong Rental Yields: 6–8% on average
• No Property Tax or Capital Gains Tax
• Reputable Developers: Aldar, Bloom, IMKAN
• Economic Stability and Safety
• Visa Opportunities for Owners

According to current Abu Dhabi real estate trends, 2025–2026 will see:

• Continuous off-plan launches on Yas and Saadiyat Islands
• Increased demand from foreign buyers seeking UAE residency
• Expanding infrastructure and tourism projects driving capital growth
• Rental market stabilization with consistent returns

The Abu Dhabi real estate market forecast shows that there is a stable 5-7 percent price growth each year which would be favorable to long time foreign investors.

Yes. Foreigners buying property in Abu Dhabi can qualify for a UAE residence visa. Foreign investors can acquire a 2-year renewable residence visa or a 10-year Golden Visa of more than AED 2 million. This makes Abu Dhabi property investment worthwhile not only but also lifestyle-enhancing.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Property value ≥ AED 1 million (fully paid)
• Property must be ready for occupancy
• Ownership must be in buyer’s name

There are no property taxes in Abu Dhabi. There are no more fees than registration and transfer fees of buyers. Investor confidence and profitability are boosted by the fact that Abu Dhabi does not collect property taxe,s coupled with the best governance in the world.

Recent Abu Dhabi real estate trends and insights reveal the increased demand in Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. Here majority of new luxury and off-plan projects are developing. Abu Dhabi is one of the best long-term markets due to its projected 5-7% growth per year. 

Abu Dhabi property market outlook 2025-2026 shows that the prices are set to remain stable in the coming years due to the diversification of the economy and the development of infrastructures.

At APIL Properties, we see Abu Dhabi real estate as one of the safest and most promising markets to international purchasers. You may be seeking a dollar rental, Golden Visa residency, or capital growth, but our professionals make the property purchase process in Abu Dhabi easy.

Can foreigners buy property in Abu Dhabi without residency?

Yes. Non-residents can purchase property in Abu Dhabi within approved zones.

What types of properties can foreigners buy?

Apartments, villas, townhouses, and off-plan projects in freehold zones.

Can foreigners own land in Abu Dhabi?

Yes — in designated freehold areas. Elsewhere, long-term usufruct or leasehold rights apply.

Can foreigners rent out their property?

Yes. Owners may lease their homes for short or long terms through licensed agencies.

Are there taxes on property ownership in Abu Dhabi?

No property or income tax applies. Only minor registration and transfer fees.

How to buy property in Abu Dhabi as a foreigner?

Choose an investment zone, sign the MoU, verify documents, register at the DMT, and receive your title deed.

What is the average rental yield in Abu Dhabi?

Around 6–8%, depending on location and property type.

What is the Abu Dhabi property market forecast for 2025?

Analysts predict steady price growth and high foreign investor interest.